Sat Mar 08 16:53:05 UTC 2025: ## India and UK Strengthen Ties with New Manchester Consulate and FTA Push

**Manchester, UK – March 8, 2025** – External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar concluded a UK leg of his tour by inaugurating a new Indian Consulate in Manchester on International Women’s Day, highlighting a significant deepening of India-UK relations. The opening, presided over by India’s new Consul General Vishakha Yaduvanshi, was attended by UK Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West.

Mr. Jaishankar described the new Consulate as a symbol of the evolving relationship, stating that it represents “making up for a lot of things…and a preparation for what is to come.” He emphasized the anticipation of a “very big pickup” in bilateral ties, particularly referencing the ongoing negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA). This FTA, he suggested, signifies a move to a “higher orbit” in the relationship.

Speaking at the Lancashire Cricket Club, Mr. Jaishankar acknowledged the complex history between India and the UK, emphasizing the importance of focusing on positive aspects and future possibilities while addressing existing challenges. He alluded to recent incidents, including a pro-Khalistan protest in London, stating that while problems exist, they will be addressed. The Indian government recently summoned the UK’s Acting High Commissioner in New Delhi following the London incident.

Further strengthening the bilateral ties, Mr. Jaishankar appealed to Manchester universities to establish campuses in India, mirroring the University of Southampton’s planned Gurugram campus. He also announced the launch of a Pravasiya Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra (Non-Resident Indian Help Centre) in the UK, the first of its kind in the region. The possibility of direct flights between Manchester and New Delhi was also raised, following Indigo’s announcement of flights from India to Amsterdam and Manchester starting in July 2025. The Minister’s visit underscores a renewed focus on strengthening the India-UK relationship across multiple sectors.

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